Wrestling photographer Lyle C. Williams passed away over the weekend. Living in the Philadelphia and New Jersey area, Lyle was one of the premier sources of images for indie promotions in the area in the post-ECW era. He documented the early iconic moments in ROH, CZW, and other indie federations, providing photographs of the stars that would rise to the top of the wrestling world in the decade to come. The US military veteran was still photographing shows at ringside until very recently when issues with his knees prevented him from attending events.
Many wrestlers and others in the industry have posted tributes to Lyle since news of his passing broke. We here at WrestleZone wish to offer our condolences to his friends and family in this difficult time. His vital contributions to the history of our sport will live on.
R.I.P. Lyle C Williams, wrestling photographer who captured the uniqueness of the Philly wrestling scene post-ECW.
I printed off dozens of his photos during college so I could stick Shane Storm and Darkness Crabtree to my binders. pic.twitter.com/JPqYVQ8oaE
— forever botchamania (@Maffewgregg) June 2, 2019
https://twitter.com/JANELABABY/status/1135326949759496197
Wrestling lost a huge fan today. I hadn’t seen Lyle Williams in many years but I still remember his kindness and enthusiasm for this industry.
He took a lot of pride in capturing moments from every show he could make it to and sharing them with everyone.
He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/9twKjP2plb
— Kevinn (@FightOwensFight) June 3, 2019
Lyle Williams was such an awesome guy! Hard working, loved wrestling & he was an excellent photographer. I always enjoyed seeing him and catching up. Lyle- you were loved by many and you’ll be missed sorely. Rest In Peace, my friend. ❤️ https://t.co/AXetTeYNQy
— Chris Hero (Is Back) (@ChrisHero) June 2, 2019
Lyle Williams took this picture.
From time-to-time he’d send me various shots from matches of mine, and he never ever had to. He did it because he knew I appreciated it and because he loved wrestling.
I’m so grateful that he did.
Rest well, and THANK YOU.
Godspeed, Lyle. pic.twitter.com/VWmGeTnWGp
— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) June 3, 2019
Damn. This is awful news. He was a good dude. My thoughts to the Jersey/Philly wrestling scene.
— “All Ego” Ethan Page (@OfficialEGO) June 2, 2019
Wrestling in the ECW Arena meant the world to me. First time that I ever stepped foot inside I was nervously standing in the corner, absolutely petrified. Lyle Williams was the first person to make me feel welcome. RIP My friend
— Avery Good, Professional Commentator (@VeryGoodProWres) June 2, 2019
https://twitter.com/MrBrandonStroud/status/1135361424962805760
Sad to hear the passing of Lyle Williams. He was such a huge part of CZW’s success.
He was a very kind man.
It was nice to have him join us for a group picture in February. pic.twitter.com/FVWrkHhueO
— SONJAY (@sonjaydutterson) June 3, 2019
